Biography:

Beethoven born in Germanyin 1770 in a very unhappy home. He was forced to practice the piano by his father who would punish him when he made mistakes. By the time he was twelve, he was earning a living for his family by playing organ and composing. He was eventually known as the greatest pianist of his time. One of Beethoven's favorite foods was macaroni and cheese. He also loved strong coffee - exactly 60 coffee beans to one cup.
Although Beethoven gradually lost his hearing, he continued composing. He composed many of the most famous musical works of all time, such as his Ninth Symphony, after he had become totally deaf.

Beethoven was the first notable composer to indicate specific metronome markings in his music, in 1817.

Here is a 5 minute video on Beethoven's life: